The Paddle for Life started after lifeguards from Fistral Beach held a Joe Way memorial paddle to raise money for charity in 2008. Joe is the inspirational little boy who touched people's lives around the country and beyond.

Our aim is to raise awareness of Joe’s story and inspire people to raise money for their chosen charity.

2018 Paddle For Life

The date of the 2018 Newquay Paddle for Life is Thursday 28th June... See you there...

Over a week of incredible stories from the Pride of Britain finalists, who've been nominated in the regional fundraiser of the year category, have ended up with Matt Way, who has organised the Joe Way Paddle for Life for the past decade in memory of his son winning.

Matt and wife Claire will be heading to the glitzy Daily Mirror Pride of Britain awards in a weeks’ time.

The three other nominees in the South West were mum-of-three Hayley Gwilliams, who set up the charity 'Footsteps for Freddie' last year to help acquire equipment for children with various conditions that prevent them from walking. Table tennis coach Liz May who organised #PinkPong and has since set up many other fundraisers for good causes. Justeen Easton from North Devon set up the charity 'Everything Ellie' two years ago following the death of her teenage daughter - Ellie.

Matt said: "I'm just feeling really humble. It was a complete surprise and after ten years of doing this to raise money for other people and to raise awareness about Joe's story it was a pleasant surprise".

Matt was surprised by ITV reporter Claire Manning with the award at Ben Skinners surfboard factory after Ben had set up a team photo to ensure Matt was at the right place at the right time.

Helen Bolton who nominated Matt for the award said: “We are so pleased for Matt and the whole family”.

The awards, hosted by The Mirror, celebrates achievements of people in the community who 'make the world a better place'. Winners are chosen after being whittled down from thousands of nominations, and are decided by a panel of judges.

The awards ceremony will be on ITV on Monday 30th October, please see below if you would like to become a sponsor at next years Paddle for Life 2018.

Raised So Far

Total donated to over 20 charities since we started the Paddle for Life is: